Fly Fishing - Saltwater Fly Rod & Line Recommendations?

Mudpuppy

Looking for a 12wt flyrod for saltwater fishing for tarpon. Was looking at the TFO Bluewater and the Redington Predator which are both in the $250 range. Anyone have any experience with these rods?

Also which line do you prefer for the 12 wt rod. A 12wt Rio Tarpon line? SA saltwater Line?

MarshallD · Location: Naples, Fl

I use a Sage XI-2 and it is loaded with a Airflow 12 wt. Ridge line. I fish for Tarpon here in Naples and 10,000 Islands.

I think that using the same line/different weight for two of my rods , 9-weight and 12-weight helps me cast the 12 better. The Airflow Ridge is a fine line IMO.

Mudpuppy · Posted: Fri 12/30/11 9:23 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the reply marshall.

So does anyone use gelspun for backing if they can't fit 200 yards of 30lb dacron on your reel? I just bought a new reel before I committed to this trip to Belize for Tarpon and it will only hold about 150 yards of 30lb Dacron with a 12wt line. I have heard that gel spun is not very good because it binds on itself.

MarshallD · Location: Naples, Fl

I always go with the Dacron. Even knotted, Gel spun can slice through a fly line. It can also cut through your finger. 20lb. Dacron should be fine for Bones, back country Snook, Baby Tarpon, Reds....